I asked a similar question when I was making salsa and ended up with great salsa. I'm making beef stew today and I don't need a recipe--the basic ingredients aren't what I need. I just want something to add so DH will say, "Wow, that is incredible!"

So what do you put in your beef stew that makes it different, delicious, and incredible?

I consider this a basic ingredient, but at any rate, enough bay leaves to impart an aroma, as well as a subtle taste. Usually 2-3 for the amount I make, depending on the size of the leaf. I think good beef stew needs that aroma as your leaning over a steaming bowl.
mmmm......